Abstract

Extensive tectonic investigations within the Ruhr-Carboniferous proved close relationship between fold-tectonics and strike-faults ("overthrusts"). A simple mechanic model implicates to regard the overthrusts as compensation-levels which reduce the surpluses of the lengths of strata caused by asymmetric folding. According to this model it is possible to determine approximately the development of the overthrusts during the mountain-folding process. A comparison of the theoretically determined data to those exposed within the Ruhr-Carboniferous shows a large conformity. Thus the applicability of the model is confirmed in principle. The relations between folding and overthrust-tectonics investigated within the Ruhr-Carboniferous seem to apply to other folded areas too. This is shown by short views to the situation within the ore-deposits of Meggen and Ramsbeck (Rheinisches Schiefergebirge).